Animatronics Engineer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Division/Department: Entertainment 

Job Title: Production Technician

Reports To: Technical Supervisor

Type of position: Non-Exempt / Hourly 

Employee Classification: Seasonal, Safety-Critical

Location: Tucson, AZ

Compensation: $18.00 - $21.00/HR

Job Summary:

Old Tucson Entertainment is seeking a safety-conscious and skilled Entertainment Technician to join our technical team. In this role, the ideal candidate will play a crucial role in ensuring the safe setup, operation, and maintenance of technical elements, including sound systems, lighting fixtures, animatronics, carpentry, pyrotechnic effects, weapons, art, and decor for our live performances, shows, and attractions. Strong communication is required between the Stage Manager and Technical Supervisor to maintain the integrity of the lighting and sound designs. Commitment to safety and attention to detail will contribute to the seamless execution of productions and the creation of memorable experiences for our guests.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities:

• Work with the entertainment staff during load out to see that event space is returned to the proper location appropriately.
• Works with the Tech Director and production staff during rehearsals to incorporate last-minute changes.
• Safely assist in the setup, operation, and maintenance of sound systems, lighting fixtures, animatronics, carpentry elements, pyrotechnic effects, weapons, art, and decor for events, live performances, shows, and attractions.
• Adhere to and enforce safety protocols and regulations to maintain a safe environment for guests, performers, and staff members, particularly regarding pyrotechnic effects, weapons, and other technical elements.
• Support routine maintenance and inspections of technical equipment, including sound and lighting systems, animatronics, carpentry structures, and weapons to ensure optimal performance and safety.
• Assist in troubleshooting technical issues related to sound, lighting, animatronics, carpentry, pyrotechnics, weapons, art, and decor to ensure smooth production operations.
• Work with team members, including technicians, designers, writers, and management staff, to execute technical requirements and integrate artistic elements seamlessly into productions and attractions.
• Participate in safety training sessions and ongoing professional development to enhance technical skills, safety procedures, and best practices related to technical operations.
• Conduct thorough quality checks on technical and artistic elements to maintain high production values and guest satisfaction.
• Promptly inform stage managers and the technical supervisor of any issues or concerns that may diminish show quality, including technical malfunctions, equipment failures, or safety hazards.
• Adapt to changing priorities, schedules, and production requirements, ensuring efficient and effective support for various productions and attractions.
• Other duties as assigned.

Education, Skill & Work Experience Requirements:

• High school diploma or equivalent required.
• Technical training or certifications in theater production, entertainment technology, or related fields are a plus.
• Previous experience working as a show technician or similar role in a theater, theme park, or entertainment venue preferred.
• Basic knowledge of sound systems, lighting equipment, animatronics, carpentry, pyrotechnics, weapons, art, and decor.
• Experience with programming and operating ETC software and consoles (EOS/ION).
• Strong commitment to safety and adherence to safety protocols and regulations.
• Attention to detail and strong problem-solving skills.
• Ability to work collaboratively in a team environment.
• Ability to work independently with self-motivation and attention to detail as well as excellent organizational skills.
• Ability to communicate effectively orally and in written form.
• Commitment to working with shared leadership and in cross-functional teams that can include seasonal employees and interns.
• Flexibility to work evenings, weekends, and holidays as required by the production schedule.
• Ability to use power tools.
• Must be able to travel domestically.
• Ability to lift and move heavy equipment and work comfortably at heights, as needed.
• Must successfully complete a pre-employment drug and alcohol screen and a background check due to the safety-critical nature of the position.

Work Environment:

• Fast-paced work environment
• Work outdoors often in a variety of weather conditions, including extreme heat and cold.
• Navigate and work on uneven ground and surfaces typical of a desert environment.
• Potential exposure to desert wildlife, including insects, reptiles, and other animals.
• Ability to work in conditions with varying levels of lighting and noise.
• Requires standing, walking, bending, and lifting for extended periods.
• Flexibility to adapt to changing environmental conditions and production needs.